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Independent Contractor Software Tester Jobs in Virginia

They are seeking a Software Tester to define and develop test standards for IT products, ensuring ... government, federal contractors, and commercial clients. Founded in 2017, the company is ...

They are seeking a Software Tester with an active TS/SCI CI Polygraph to develop test standards and ... government, federal contractors, and commercial clients. Founded in 2017, the company is ...

We specialize in in Independent Verification and Validation, Test Automation and DevOps, Static ... Software quality assurance experience * Testing experience on back-end data processing applications

We specialize in in Independent Verification and Validation, Test Automation and DevOps, Static ... Software quality assurance experience * Testing experience on back-end data processing applications

Software System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$100K - $215K/yr

Software Expert II provides independent technical advisory support, evaluating software solutions, requirements, and contractor performance to ensure alignment with mission and program objectives.

Software System Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$100K - $215K/yr

Software Expert II provides independent technical advisory support, evaluating software solutions, requirements, and contractor performance to ensure alignment with mission and program objectives.

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Independent Contractor Software Tester information

See Virginia salary details

$19

$43

$69

How much do independent contractor software tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor software tester in Virginia is $43.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.12 and $51.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor software tester?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Software Tester, you need a solid understanding of software testing methodologies, attention to detail, and experience with various test case design techniques, often supported by a degree in computer science or relevant certifications. Familiarity with tools such as Selenium, JIRA, Bugzilla, and test automation frameworks is typically required. Excellent communication, self-motivation, and time management help you stand out when working remotely and collaborating with diverse clients. These skills ensure high-quality deliverables, efficient problem-solving, and reliable results in a flexible, often autonomous work environment.

Are independent contractor software testers still in demand?

Independent contractor software testers are still in demand due to ongoing needs for quality assurance in software development. Skills in automation tools, scripting, and familiarity with testing frameworks enhance employability in this flexible role, which often involves remote work and project-based assignments.

What are some common challenges faced by independent contractor software testers, and how can they be addressed?

Independent contractor software testers often face challenges such as managing multiple projects simultaneously, adjusting quickly to different clients' processes, and ensuring clear communication despite remote work. To address these, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, establish clear expectations and communication channels with clients, and continuously update testing knowledge to adapt to various tools and methodologies. Building a network of professional contacts and maintaining regular check-ins with project stakeholders can also help foster collaborative relationships and ensure project success.

What is an independent contractor software tester?

An Independent Contractor Software Tester is a professional who evaluates software applications for defects, usability issues, and overall quality, but works on a contract basis rather than as a full-time employee. Independent contractors are typically hired by companies for specific projects or testing cycles and may work remotely or onsite. Their duties include designing test cases, executing tests, reporting bugs, and collaborating with developers to ensure products meet quality standards. Being independent allows them to work with multiple clients and manage their own schedules. They are responsible for their own taxes and benefits, as they are not direct employees of the companies they serve.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Software Tester vs Freelance Software Developer?

AspectIndependent Contractor Software TesterFreelance Software Developer
CredentialsTypically requires testing certifications (e.g., ISTQB), technical skillsRequires programming skills, coding certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentOften project-based, remote or on-site testing rolesProject-based, remote or on-site development work
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by software companies, QA firms, tech startupsUsed by startups, tech companies, agencies
Search & Comparison IntentCommonly compared for testing roles, quality assuranceCompared for development roles, coding projects

The main difference between an Independent Contractor Software Tester and a Freelance Software Developer lies in their focus and skill set. Testers specialize in quality assurance, testing methodologies, and certifications, while developers focus on coding and software creation. Both roles are flexible, project-based, and often remote, but serve different functions within the software development lifecycle.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Tester jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Software Tester jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Software Tester jobs in Virginia? For Independent Contractor Software Tester jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Software Tester jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Software Tester jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Independent Contractor Software Tester jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Independent Contractor Software Tester job openings:
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Software Tester job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,714 per year, or $43.1 per hour.

Software Tester

Gridiron IT

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
Gridiron IT is a Women Owned Small Business headquartered in the Washington, D.C. area that supports federal agencies. They are seeking a Software Tester to define and develop test standards for IT products, ensuring compliance with specifications and coordinating integrated testing activities.
Responsibilities:
• Responsible for ensuring that all tests are conducted in a proper and orderly manner.
• Must also be able to motivate test team members and keep them on track.
• Stay abreast of emerging and changing software technologies design practices to provide solutions that are leading edge, competitive and cost effective.
• Establish expected standards for quality assurance and communicate them to the entire test team.
• Provide feedback to testers setting quality standards and helping improve their work.
• Develop test automation strategy for projects in AGILE methodology.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent, and 5 – 7 years of related experience.
• Active and current TS/SCI with polygraph
• CompTIA Security+ certification
• Experience in Agile environment
• Experience in Scrum
• Experience in Automated testing
• Experience in Security testing
• Experience with MS TFS
• Experience with Zap (security testing)
• Good organizational skills
• Good leadership skills
• Good project management skills
• Good negotiation skills
• Good people management skills
• Good time management skills
• Good problem-solving ability
• Good analytical and logical skills
Preferred:
• ISTQB Certified Tester or equivalent
• Familiarity with load testing
Company:
Gridiron IT is a firm that specializes in IT talent acquisition and placement for government, federal contractors, and commercial clients. Founded in 2017, the company is headquartered in Reston, USA, with a team of 201-500 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.